There are plenty of inexpensive accommodations
around the world. The major ones are B&B (Bed & Breakfast),
youth hostels, YMCA, YWCA, backpackers, and guesthouses. They all
have two things in common: 1) shared kitchen, shower and restrooms
2) reasonable price for students and tourists.
Meanwhile, guesthouses in Japan are now very popular not only
with oversea guests but among Japanese who are interested in
cultural and language exchange as well.

What Regular Guesthouses Provide

For travelers who are looking for accommodations
other than a standard hotel in Japan the difficulties involved can
be frustrating and expensive. For instance, the average real estate
company and landlord will not accept non-Japanese tenants and most
standard apartments require non-refundable up-front fees that are
equivalent to 6 months worth of rent. Our company can help visitors
bypass these obstacles and find a comfortable and affordable apartment
in Japan.

<<What
regular guesthouses provide and request>>*No key-money,
agent fee, guarantor, extension fee required.
*Refundable deposit (from 10,000yen to 30,000yen)
*Inexpensive rent
*Most of the utilities (gas, water, electricity and internet) included
in the rent.
*Both short and long-term stay welcomed (some can accept one-night
stay)
*Kitchen, shower, and living room shared with other tenants.(some
have coin showers)
*Well furnished with bed, air conditioning ect.
The rental system varies from company to company

The major reason why non-Japanese have difficulties looking for an apartment in Japan are:

*Not many realty agents can speak languages other
than Japanese.
*It is extremely difficult for non-Japanese to find a guarantor.
(A guarantor must be a Japanese person, currently living in Japan,
who is capable of covering the cost of the the tenant's liabilities)
*Due to cultural and language barriers, not many landowners are
willing to offer their property to foreigners